The Maremma gets its name from the Maremma region of Tuscany, Italy, where American and English breeders first spotted the dog. The Maremma actually originated in the Apennine mountains of the Abruzzi region of Italy. Their existence is depicted on Italian paintings that date back to the 1400s. The Maremma has been utilized for centuries by shepherds to guard flocks of sheep from wolves and other predators. The Maremma was first imported into the United States during the early 1970s.
The Maremma Sheepdog is a large white dog that is powerful and muscular. The Maremma has a broad bear-like head with a broad muzzle and strong jaws. Its ears V-shaped and pendant. The Maremma has a thick white double coat. Since their coats are white, grooming may require some attention. Their ears should be checked regularly to prevent infection.
Personality
The Maremma is a natural born guardian and protector breed. They are very loyal, brave and courageous. They are devoted to their masters and affectionate, but somewhat independent. As most herding breeds, the Maremma needs plenty of mental and physical exercise. They are not suited for apartment or full-time indoor living, as they need space to run and roam. They can be wary of strangers.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 10-13 Years |
| Nicknames: | Maremma Sheepdog, Abruzzese, Maremmano-Abruzzese, Abruzzese shepherd dog, Abruzzenhund, Pastore, cane da Pastore, Cane da Pastore Maremmano Abruzzese, Pastore Maremano Abruzzese |
Maremma Build Information
The Maremma is a large, muscular dog that stands 23 to 29 inches tall at the shoulders and weighs and average of 65 to 110 pounds. The Maremma is covered in a thick double coat that is typically solid white, but tints of cream or light yellow are also seen. The Maremma has V-shaped ears that hang downward and a plumed tail that is carried downward. The Maremma Sheepdog is a large white dog that is powerful and muscular. The Maremma has a broad bear-like head with a broad muzzle and strong jaws. Its ears V-shaped and pendant. The Maremma has a thick white double coat. Since their coats are white, grooming may require some attention. Their ears should be checked regularly to prevent infection.
| Size: | Large |
Behaviour and Personality
The Maremma resembles a white bear with a plumed tail. Known initially as a protector of flock, the breed is also a protective guard dog and loving companion that will thrive as a family member when provided with plenty of room and opportunities to romp and play. The Maremma is a devoted and gentle companion dog. The herding instinct remains strong, and a Maremma will likely try to herd small children and other animals in the home. The breed is intelligent, relatively calm and easily trained. They are brave and fiercely protective of their families and wary toward strangers, making them good guard dogs. The Maremma is not an ideal dog for an apartment or condominium. This dog requires ample room and opportunities to run and exercise in the safe confines of a fenced yard. The Maremma is a natural born guardian and protector breed. They are very loyal, brave and courageous. They are devoted to their masters and affectionate, but somewhat independent. As most herding breeds, the Maremma needs plenty of mental and physical exercise. They are not suited for apartment or full-time indoor living, as they need space to run and roam. They can be wary of strangers.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
The coat of a Maremma should be brushed out at least twice a week to remove dead hair and minimize shedding in the home. The ears should be inspected weekly and cleaned when necessary. Brushing the teeth every other day will reduce tartar accumulation and periodontal disease.
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
Maremma Common Health Conditions
The Maremma lives an average lifespan of 11 to 13 years. Some health problems to be aware of include hip dysplasia, entropion and gastric torsion, or bloat. The breed has also been noted to have drug sensitivities to some anesthetics and medications.
Maremma Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
The Maremma originated in Italy. The Maremma is also called an Abruzzese, a Maremmano-Abruzzese, an Abruzzese shepherd dog, an Abruzzenhund, a Pastore, a cane da Pastore, a Cane da Pastore Maremmano Abruzzese and a Pastore Maremano Abruzzese. The Maremma is a brave, loyal and protective guard dog and an intelligent and devoted companion. The Maremma stands 23 to 29 inches tall and weighs 65 to 110 pounds. A Maremma has a high energy level. A Maremma requires moderate grooming. The average lifespan for a Maremma is 11 to 13 years.
| Training: | Easy |
